In the Line of Duty (6×13) Preview
by Gayle (@DensiLand)
Written by: Tim Clemente; Directed by: Karen Gaviola
Official CBS press release – “In The Line Of Duty” – After U.S. Ambassador Nancy Kelly narrowly escapes a terrorist attack at the U.S. consulate in Tunisia, Callen and Sam are sent on a secret, dangerous mission to obtain key evidence from the crime scene. Upon their return, the team seeks Kelly’s help to provide missing information, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Jan. 19 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Julie Chen, host of THE TALK, guest stars as U.S. Ambassador Nancy Kelly.
Welcome to the second half of Season 6! Can you believe we’ve reached the midpoint already? With this show time passes effortlessly with the compelling mix of mystery, action, and I dare say, tiny bits of romance. So what might the powers-that-be have planned for our favorite team and viewers this week? It’s a tough guess based on the brief teasers, but let’s give it a try.
It seems OSP might have to present a more formal, all-business environment once their protectee is revealed as a U.S. Ambassador. Those holding the position of Ambassador, like many other appointed government officials, are known for “serving at the pleasure of the President”. (The team likely mirrors that situation with regard to Hetty and Granger. Don’t cross them!) So when it comes to the term “duty”, Ambassadors and agents alike have a keen understanding of their significant commitment.
Always on the move, this week’s operation takes Callen and Hanna to Tunisia, a small country wedged between Algeria and Libya at the northern tip of Africa. What might they discover there to shed light on the case? What might the Ambassador have done or said to prompt the attack? Is she hiding something? Does this point to government secrets, personal illegal or unethical actions, or something else entirely? Has U.S. policy provoked backlash? The possibilities are simply too numerous to consider.
At some point do the guys find themselves repelling into a compound? (The writers and producers always find a way to keep us on the edge of our seats – even without the customary “booms”!) Via pen, keyboard, or physical demonstration, the action is sure to be on point from Tim Clemente, a regular consultant on many fast-paced, criminally-focused shows with first-hand experience in stunt performance! Also back on set as director is Karen Gaviola, who also gifted us with such memorable episodes as “Merry Evasion” and “Overwatch”.
Of course this wouldn’t be our “family” without a little levity, which this week is tasked to Team Densi. Speaking of little, the clues and evidence suggest a search for something akin to a “needle in a haystack”, at least based on Kensi and Deeks’ considerable (& comedic) magnifying glasses. [This harkens back to “Paper Soldiers” (4×13) when a squinting Kensi results in Deeks’ mention of “granny glasses”!] All joking aside, NCISLA again introduces us to next-generation technology: 3D evidence printers that bring the crime scene to the gym and the ability to see “evidence smaller than the naked eye can detect”. While it’s typically Neric hoarding the cool gadgets, with these accessories, what might Kensi and Deeks “spy with their little eye”?
Unsurprisingly their appearance triggers a cartoon (excuse me, animated series) reference from the ill-contained inner-child of Deeks. It’s no wonder the detective has an affinity for the humorous Magoo, who regularly finds himself in problematic situations, refuses to admit the gravity of those situations, and shares many commonalities with his canine companion! And might the animation topic lead to a nearly-inevitable mention of Scooby-Doo?
Whether it be the protection of one or many, abroad or at home, how might the team complete their duties as keepers of the peace Next… on NCISLA?
